Human Sciences

Group 3 – Business Management

Content and Methodology

Business and Management is a rigorous and dynamic discipline that examines business decision making processes and how these decisions impact on and are affected by internal and external environments. It is the study of both the way in which individuals and groups interact in an organization and of the transformation of resources.

The Business Management course is designed to develop an understanding of business theory, as well as an ability to apply business principles, practices and skills. The application of tools and techniques of analysis facilitates an appreciation of complex business activities. The course considers the diverse range of business organizations and activities and the cultural and economic context in which business operates. Emphasis is placed on strategic decision-making and the day-to-day business functions of marketing, production, human resource management and finance. Links between the topics are central to the course, and this integration promotes a holistic overview of business activity.

Distinction between SL and HL

The HL course differs from the SL course in Business Management in terms of the extra depth and breadth required such as topic 6 for HL students and the HL extension unit. The nature of the internal assessment tasks is different. Learning outcomes and examination questions are more demanding for HL.

Prior Knowledge

No particular background is required and no prior knowledge of business and management is necessary for students to undertake a course of study based on this specification. However, a familiarity with business concepts would be an advantage.

Group 3 – Psychology

Content and Methodology

IB Psychology examines the interaction of biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour, thereby adopting an integrative approach. Understanding how psychological knowledge is generated, developed and applied enables students to achieve a greater understanding of themselves and appreciate the diversity of human behaviour. The ethical concerns raised by the methodology and application of psychological research are key considerations in IB Psychology.

IB Psychology takes a holistic approach that fosters intercultural understanding and respect. In the core of the IB Psychology course, the biological level of analysis demonstrates what all humans share, whereas the cognitive and sociocultural levels of analysis reveal the immense diversity of influences that produce human behaviour and mental processes. Cultural diversity is explored and students are encouraged to develop empathy for the feelings, needs and lives of others within and outside their own culture. This empathy contributes to an international understanding.

Distinction between SL and HL

SL and HL students are taught as one group. SL students are assessed on their knowledge and comprehension of one option in paper 2, whereas HL students are assessed on two options. In the internal assessment, the report of a simple experimental study conducted by HL students requires inferential statistical analysis (which students will receive full support with) and a more in-depth approach than that required of SL students.

Prior Knowledge

No prior study of psychology is expected. No particular background in terms of specific subjects studied for national or international qualifications is expected or required of students. The skills needed for the psychology course are developed during the course itself.

Group 3 – History

Content and Methodology

History is more than the study of the past. It is the process of recording, reconstructing and interpreting the past through the investigation of a variety of sources. It is a discipline that gives people an understanding of themselves and others in relation to the world, both past and present.

Students of History should learn how the discipline works. It is an exploratory subject that poses questions without providing definitive answers. In order to understand the past, students must engage with it both through exposure to primary historical sources and through the work of historians. Historical study involves both selection and interpretation of data and critical evaluation of it. Students of History should appreciate the relative nature of historical knowledge and understanding, as each generation reflects its own world and preoccupations and as more evidence emerges. A study of History both requires and develops an individual’s understanding of, and empathy for, people living in other periods and contexts.

Distinction between SL and HL

SL and HL students are taught as one group and follow Route 2, 20th century world history. In addition, HL students must read 3 options: the French Revolution and Napoleon, European diplomacy and WWI as well as the interwar years. The options that HL students take are tested in Paper 3.